U.S. patent application number 12/219921 was filed with the patent office on 2009-05-28 for motorcycle wind deflector accessory support.
Invention is credited to Carl Paluszkiewicz.
Application Number | 20090134655 12/219921 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40589903 |
Filed Date | 2009-05-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090134655 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Paluszkiewicz; Carl |
May 28, 2009 |
Motorcycle wind deflector accessory support
Abstract
A motorcycle wind deflector accessory support for attaching one
or more motorcycle accessories to the accessory support. The
accessory support has one or more support members forming a
substantially rigid support structure contoured to correspond to at
least a portion of the shape of a front surface of a wind
deflector. The support structure defines at least one window
through which at least a part of the front surface of the wind
deflector is visible, together with an attaching structure that
holds the support structure against or over at least a section of
the front surface of the wind deflector. The accessory support may
have a base for attachment to the motorcycle and/or may engage an
exposed edge of the wind deflector. The accessory support may also
have one or more rear support elements for supporting accessories.
Accessories include decorative overlays for a front surface of the
wind deflector, radio antennas, lighting, and reflectors.
Inventors: |
Paluszkiewicz; Carl;
(Mississauga, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Douglas Eggins;c/o Kozlowski & Company
5065 Forest Hill Drive
Mississauge
ON
L5M 5A7
CA
|
Family ID: |
40589903 |
Appl. No.: |
12/219921 |
Filed: |
July 30, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
296/78.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62J 11/00 20130101;
B62J 17/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
296/78.1 |
International
Class: |
B62J 17/00 20060101
B62J017/00; B62J 11/00 20060101 B62J011/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 29, 2007 |
CA |
2,608,561 |
Claims
1. A motorcycle wind deflector accessory support for attaching at
least one motorcycle accessory to the accessory support, the
accessory support comprising: at least one support member forming a
substantially rigid support structure contoured to correspond to at
least a portion of a shape of a front surface of a wind deflector,
at least one window formed in said accessory support through which
at least a part of the front surface of the wind deflector is
visible, and attaching structure that holds said support structure
against or over at least a section of the front surface of the wind
deflector.
2. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 1
wherein said support member is continuous.
3. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 1
wherein said attaching structure comprises a base attached to a
bottom of the support structure for attachment to a motorcycle.
4. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 3
wherein the base is attached to the bottom of the support structure
by a jog for mounting the base against or over a front surface of a
front fairing.
5. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 3
wherein the base is co-planar with the support structure.
6. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 3
wherein the base includes apertures or notches for attaching the
base to a motorcycle, wherein the apertures or notches in the base
correspond to apertures or notches in the wind deflector, and
further wherein the base and the wind deflector are configured and
arranged to be attached to a motorcycle with one or more bolts.
7. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 3
wherein said attaching structure includes at least one engagement
member that engages an upper edge of the wind deflector.
8. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 7
wherein said engagement member comprises a channel.
9. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 8
wherein said channel is defined by a back surface of an upper front
support member and a back surface of an upper rear support element,
wherein the upper support member and the upper support element are
connected to form a U-shaped channel.
10. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 9
wherein the upper rear support element is biased towards a back of
the support structure for clamping the wind deflector against the
back of the support structure.
11. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 1
further comprising a motorcycle wind deflector accessory.
12. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 11
wherein the accessory comprises a decorative overlay attached to
the support structure for display against or over the wind
deflector within the said at least one window.
13. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 12
wherein the decorative overlay is attached to the support structure
at least two points, and further wherein said at least two points
are separated from each other by said at least one window.
14. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 13
wherein one of said points is along an upper support member and
another of said points is along a lower support member.
15. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 12
wherein the decorative overlay is removably attachable to the
support structure.
16. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 15
wherein the decorative overlay is removably attachable by bolting,
screwing, snap fitting, friction fitting, or hook and loop
fastening, the decorative overlay to the support structure.
17. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 15
wherein the decorative overlay comprises an insert for a cavity in
the support structure.
18. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 17
wherein the cavity comprises one of said at least one windows and
structure to removably retain the insert in the cavity.
19. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 11
wherein the accessory comprises an antenna.
20. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 19
wherein the antenna is moulded into the accessory support.
21. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 19
wherein the antenna is mounted in at least one antenna cavity in
the accessory support.
22. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 21
wherein said at least one antenna cavity is within a perimeter of
the support structure.
23. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 21
wherein the antenna is removable and replaceable.
24. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 19
wherein at least a part of the antenna is mounted on a surface of
the accessory support.
25. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 1
wherein the accessory support further comprises a channel, and
further wherein an antenna is mounted within said channel.
26. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 1
wherein the accessory support further comprises at least one groove
in a surface of the accessory support, and further wherein an
antenna is mounted within said groove.
27. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 11
wherein the accessory comprises lights attached to a visible
surface of the accessory support.
28. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 27
wherein the lights comprise light emitting diodes.
29. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 27
wherein the lights are powered by an electrical system of a
motorcycle.
30. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 27
wherein the lights are powered by at least one battery that is
separate from a remainder of an electrical system of a
motorcycle.
31. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 27
wherein the accessory further comprises a regulator that regulates
the order, frequency or colour of the lights to be powered.
32. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 27
wherein the lights comprise one or more than one brake light,
running light, or pair of turn signal lights.
33. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 32
wherein the lights are recessed in at least one of a front, a rear
or a side surface of the accessory support.
34. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 32
wherein the accessory support further comprises at least one rear
support element, and further wherein at least one of said lights is
mounted upon said at least one rear support element.
35. The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support of claim 32
wherein said lights comprise turn signal lights and brake lights
and further wherein said lights are powered by a power supply
separate from a power supply of a motorcycle and said turn signal
lights and said brake lights are operably connected to the
motorcycle by RF receivers attached to said lights and RF
transmitters attached to the electrical system of the motorcycle.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to motorcycle
accessories. More particularly, the present invention relates to a
motorcycle accessory support securable about a motorcycle wind
deflector and accessories attachable to the support.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the construction of some styles of motorcycles, such as
Harley Davidson.TM. FLHT.TM. models, fibreglass shells known as
fairings are placed over the front of the motorcycles to reduce
drag and protect internal components. A front fairing and inner
fairing may be secured together to and over the steering assembly.
Notably, the fairings protect the rider and historically have
supported a transparent windshield extending upward from the top of
the fairings.
[0003] In modern motorcycle models, the windshield is often
replaced by a wind deflector that extends upward only enough to
deflect some of the air flow over and around the rider. Such
designs avoid placement of a physical barrier immediately in front
of the rider, and the deflector is therefore not required to be
transparent. For aesthetic reasons the wind deflector is often
black.
[0004] Motorcycle enthusiasts desiring to personalize their
motorcycles may purchase or custom-design various functional or
decorative motorcycle accessories, including decals, detailing,
reflectors, lights, antennas and the like. Unfortunately, many of
these custom modifications are irreversible or difficult to remove
as the owner's needs or tastes change. Similarly, the owner may
decide to sell the motorcycle and may wish to remove these
accessories to bring the motorcycle back to stock looks. It is,
therefore, desirable to provide motorcycle accessories that may be
easily attached to and removed from the motorcycle without
permanent alteration to the motorcycle.
[0005] Motorcycle enthusiasts often go to great expense to decorate
or detail their motorcycles, including the front fairing and/or
fuel tank, in various themes such as flames. Such artwork is
typically not permanently extended above the front fairing onto the
wind deflector, as this may damage the wind deflector or prevent
restoration of the wind deflector. The result is often a wind
deflector which has conflicting design features from that of the
front fairing directly below the wind deflector of a modern
motorcycle. While decorative pieces in the shape of upwardly rising
flames have been developed for placement over a wind deflector for
attachment between the wind deflector and a rear surface of a front
fairing, the loose ends of the flames are subject to deforming over
time, as well as easy vandalism and may rattle against the wind
deflector. Accordingly, a better way to support a decorative piece
against a wind deflector without modifying the wind deflector
itself is desirable.
[0006] Modern motorcycles, especially "fully loaded" models such as
Harley Davidson.TM. motorcycles, often have AM/FM radios as built
in accessories. Antennas for AM/FM radios, especially FM band
radios, require an antenna for suitable reception. These antennas
are typically mounted as far away from the engine as possible and
as high as possible for optimum reception. As a result vertical
antennas are often mounted behind the rear seat of a motorcycle.
This method of mounting an antenna makes the antenna prone to
damage, vandalism and theft. Rear mounted vertically oriented
antennas also require the occupant, especially a rear occupant, to
swing his or her leg around the antenna making mounting and
dismounting awkward. Accordingly, an improved method of supporting
a radio antenna on a motorcycle is desirable.
[0007] Street motorcycles, as opposed to off road motorcycles or
"dirt bikes", are required to have turn signal lights, a rear brake
light, and may have running lights. The rear turn signal lights and
rear brake light or lights are typically mounted low on a
motorcycle, typically below the rear seat of the motorcycle.
Accordingly, the driver of a motor vehicle passing the motorcycle
may not be able to see the motorcycle's rear brake or signal
lights. This is especially a problem when the passing vehicle is in
a motorcycle driver's blind spot, or when a motor vehicle is simply
travelling in the motorcycle driver's blind spot. Some late model
motorcycles sometimes have options for signal lights combined with
side view mirrors, however, adding such mirrors after purchase is
prohibitively expensive. Further, such mirrors may not be available
as a retrofit for older models of motorcycles, and if available are
extremely costly. Further, such additions are intended as permanent
accessories for the motorcycle. Accordingly, an inexpensive and
simple way to removably mount brake, turn signal, and running
lights forward of the motorcyclist as high as possible on the
motorcycle is desirable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In accordance with the present invention a motorcycle wind
deflector accessory support is provided for attaching one or more
motorcycle accessories to the accessory support, the accessory
support having one or more support members forming a substantially
rigid support structure contoured to at least a shape of a front
surface of a wind deflector, the support structure defining one or
more windows through which at least a part of the front surface of
the wind deflector is visible, and having means for holding the
support structure against or over at least a section of the front
surface of the wind deflector.
[0009] In one aspect the support structure consists of one
continuous support member defining one or more windows.
[0010] In one aspect the means for holding the support structure
against or over the section of the front surface of the wind
deflector includes a base attached to a bottom of the support
structure, the base for attachment to the motorcycle. The base may
be secured to the motorcycle by the same means as that securing the
wind deflector to the motorcycle.
[0011] In one aspect, the means for holding the support structure
against or over the section of the front surface of the wind
deflector includes engaging means for engaging an upper edge of the
wind deflector. In this aspect, the engaging means may be used
together with, or in place of, the base.
[0012] In one aspect, the engaging means includes a channel defined
by a back surface of an upper front support member, and a back
surface of an upper rear support element, the upper support member
and the upper support element connected to form a U-shaped
channel.
[0013] In one aspect, the one or more rear support element is
contoured to the shape of a rear surface of the wind deflector.
[0014] In one aspect, the one or more upper support members and the
one or more rear support elements defining the channel for engaging
the upper edge of the wind deflector includes a continuous upper
support member and a continuous rear support element.
[0015] In one aspect the motorcycle wind deflector accessory
support further includes one or more motorcycle accessories.
[0016] In another aspect the motorcycle accessory includes one or
more decorative overlays attached to the support structure for
display against or over the wind deflector within the one or more
windows.
[0017] In one aspect the decorative overlay is attached to the
support structure at two or more points.
[0018] In this aspect at least one of the two or more points is
along an upper support member and another of the two or more points
is along a lower support member.
[0019] In one aspect the decorative overlay attached to the upper
support member and the lower support member is oriented
vertically.
[0020] In one aspect the decorative overlay is attached to the
support structure at three or more points defining three or more
windows.
[0021] In one aspect the decorative overlay is integral with the
support structure.
[0022] In one aspect the decorative overlay comprises one or more
inserts which are removable and interchangeable.
[0023] In one aspect the decorative overlay is a contrasting colour
from the front surface of the wind deflector.
[0024] In one aspect the decorative overlay is a contrasting colour
from the support structure.
[0025] In another aspect the decorative overlay may also comprise a
front support member.
[0026] In another aspect the motorcycle accessory includes an
antenna.
[0027] In one aspect the antenna may be for an FM radio, AM radio,
AM/FM radio, Citizen's band radio, private frequency two way radio,
global positioning system (GPS), or for an ONSTAR.TM.
communications and remote control system.
[0028] In one aspect the antenna is integral to or within the
support structure, the one or more front support members, the one
or more rear support elements, the base, or the edge of the
accessory support over the upper edge of the wind deflector, or a
combination thereof.
[0029] In one aspect the antenna may be attached to a surface of
the accessory support, or be located within a groove in the surface
of the accessory support, or be located within a cavity or channel
in the accessory support, or a combination thereof.
[0030] In one aspect the antenna is attached around a perimeter of
the accessory support or a perimeter of the support structure or a
perimeter of the rear support elements, or a combination
thereof.
[0031] In another aspect the motorcycle accessory includes
decorative or functional, or decorative and functional, lights
attached to any visible surface of the accessory support including
the support structure, base, front support members, rear support
elements and edge of the accessory support over the upper edge of
the wind deflector.
[0032] In one aspect the lights are decorative and/or functional
lights comprising one or more brake lights, one or more pair of
turn signal lights, or one or more running lights, which are
connected to and powered by the motorcycle's existing electrical
system wherein the brake lights, turn signal lights and running
lights attached to the accessory support operate simultaneously
with and are controlled by the motorcycle's existing lighting
system.
[0033] In one aspect the brake lights and turn signal lights are
attached to the one or more rear support elements and spaced apart
horizontally and running lights and turn signal lights are attached
to the support structure and spaced apart horizontally.
[0034] In one aspect the brake lights, turn signal lights and
running lights comprise Light Emitting Diode (LED) panels. The LED
panels may be attached to the surface of the accessory support,
including the support structure, front support members, base, rear
support elements or edge of the accessory support over the upper
edge of the wind deflector, or may be recessed in the support
structure front support members, base, rear support elements or
edge of the accessory support over the upper edge of the wind
deflector.
[0035] In one aspect other decorative and/or functional lights may
be attached to the accessory support which may be powered by the
motorcycle's existing electrical system or may have a separate
power source which may include one or more batteries. The lights
may also be connected to means for regulating the order, frequency,
intensity and colour of the lights to be powered.
[0036] In another aspect the motorcycle accessory includes one or
more reflectors attached to the visible surface of the accessory
support including the support structure, front support members,
base, rear support elements, and edge of the accessory support over
the upper edge of the wind deflector.
[0037] Other aspects and features of the present invention will
become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review
of the following descriptions of specific embodiments of the
invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described,
by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures,
wherein:
[0039] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective assembly view of a
motorcycle wind deflector accessory support mounted on a wind
deflector on a motorcycle;
[0040] FIG. 2 is a sectional side view of the assembly of FIG. 1
taken along line 2-2.
[0041] FIG. 3 is a front view of the accessory support without a
wind deflector accessory attached to the support shown mounted on a
wind deflector;
[0042] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the support of FIG. 3 without a
wind deflector accessory attached to the support shown mounted on a
wind deflector;
[0043] FIG. 5 is a front view of the accessory support with a
decorative overlay supported by an upper and a lower support member
of the support structure;
[0044] FIG. 6 is a rear view of the accessory support with the
decorative overlay of FIG. 5 supported by the upper and lower
support members of the support structure;
[0045] FIG. 7 is a front view of the accessory support with
multiple decorative overlays supported by upper and lower support
members of the support structure and defining a plurality of
windows.
[0046] FIG. 8 is a front view of the accessory support with a
single decorative overlay attached at multiple points along the
support structure and defining a plurality of windows.
[0047] FIG. 9 is a front view of the accessory support shown
supporting a radio antenna;
[0048] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the accessory support shown
supporting the radio antenna of FIG. 9;
[0049] FIG. 11 is a front view of the accessory support shown
supporting left and right running lights and left and right turn
signal lights;
[0050] FIG. 12 is a rear view of the accessory support of FIG. 11
shown supporting left and right brake lights and left and right
turn signal lights; and
[0051] FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a wiring harness for the
lights of FIG. 11 and FIG. 12.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0052] Generally, the present invention provides a motorcycle wind
deflector accessory support 30 attachable against a motorcycle wind
deflector 25 for supporting various motorcycle accessories.
Exemplary embodiments are discussed below with reference to the
figures.
[0053] With reference to FIG. 1, at least a portion of the steering
assembly of many modern motorcycles are encased between a front
fairing 20 and an inner fairing 21. The front fairing 20 is
typically attached to the forks (not shown) of a motorcycle
steering assembly and typically supports a headlight and is
generally shaped to deflect wind resistance around a motorcyclist.
The inner fairing 21 typically comprises a dashboard which
typically supports various gauges and dials, a radio and the like.
The wind deflector 25 extending upwardly from fairings 20, 21 is
typically held in place by securing a bottom portion 27 of the wind
deflector 25 between front fairing 20 and inner fairing 21. A
bottom edge 28 of wind deflector 25 typically comprises mounting
notches 26 or the bottom portion 27 may comprise mounting apertures
(not shown) whereby a plurality of wind deflector attachment bolts
22, commonly three bolts 22, are passed through front fairing
apertures 23, then through corresponding mounting notches 26 or
mounting apertures (not shown) and then into corresponding threaded
sleeves 24 or threaded nuts (not shown) supported by inner fairing
21 in order to secure the wind deflector 25 to the motorcycle (not
shown).
[0054] FIGS. 1 to 4 illustrate one embodiment, and variations
thereof, of the present invention in which a motorcycle wind
deflector accessory support 30 is provided comprising one
continuous front support member 31 forming a substantially rigid
support structure 32 contoured to the shape of a front surface 33
of wind deflector 25, the support member 31 for placement against
the front surface 33 of the wind deflector 25, an inside edge 34 of
front support member 31 surrounding a central unobstructed portion
35 of the front surface 33 of the wind deflector 25, the support
structure 32 for supporting one or more than one motorcycle
accessories. An integral base 36 is attached to support structure
32 by jog 37. Jog 37 is provided to accommodate the distance
between the front surface 33 of wind deflector 25 and the front
surface 38 of front fairing 20. Base 36 is attached to the front
surface 38 of the front fairing 20 by wind deflector attachment
bolts 22. Depending upon the model of motorcycle and the thickness
of the base 36 existing bolts 22 may be used to secure the base 36
against the front surface 38 of fairing 20 but longer bolts 22 of a
similar thread pattern may be substituted. Existing bolts 22
holding the wind deflector 25 in place are removed and existing or
longer replacement bolts 22 with bolt heads 22a are installed
through accessory support apertures 39 of accessory support 30,
front fairing apertures 23 in front fairing 20, wind deflector
notches 26 in wind deflector 25, respectively, and then threaded
into threaded sleeves 24 which are supported by inner fairing 21.
An upper portion 40, of an upper front support member 31 which is
contoured to the shape of front surface 33 of wind deflector 25,
adjacent an exposed edge 41 of wind deflector 25 is attached to an
upper portion 45, of an upper rear support element 42 which is
contoured to the shape of a rear surface 44 of wind deflector 25,
adjacent to the exposed edge 41 of wind deflector 25, which defines
channel 43 for engaging the exposed edge 41 of wind deflector 25 to
more securely mount the support structure 32 against the front
surface 33 of wind deflector 25. Upper rear support element 42 may
be somewhat resilient and biased towards rear surface 44 of wind
deflector 25 to snugly mount an upper portion of support member 31
against the front surface 33 of the wind deflector 25 to reduce or
eliminate rattling. It is to be understood that the upper exposed
edge 41 of wind deflector 25 is to be inserted into channel 43
before base 36 is bolted against front fairing 20.
[0055] The motorcycle wind deflector accessory support 30 may be
constructed of any suitable material, including fibreglass,
plastic, metal, PVC etc. Appropriate materials and design
modifications should be considered to minimize drag and rattle of
the support 30 against the wind deflector 25 while driving,
depending on the desired material for the accessory support 30. For
example, it is expected that rattle could be minimized by using a
low-profile fibreglass support structure 32, or by securing one or
more of the front support members 31 to upper exposed edge 41 of
the wind deflector 25. Similarly, any windows 46 within the support
structure 32 may be filled with clear plastic to protect the
visible front portions of the wind deflector 25 and reduce
drag.
[0056] Several alternate ways exist to attach the base 36 to the
motorcycle. For example the base 36 may be compressed between a
back surface (not shown) of front fairing 20 and the front surface
of wind deflector 25 in which case accessory support apertures 39
may, but need not be used, as compression exerted by front fairing
20 against base 36 on tightening wind deflector attachment bolts 22
would be enough to hold the base 36 securely in place. However,
depending upon the contour of the bottom edge of base 36 notches
similar to notches 26 in wind deflector 25 may be used to allow
bolts 22 to be installed. In this example a jog would not be
required to join the support structure 32 to base 36 as both the
support structure 32 and the base 36 would be co-planer and lay
against the front surface 33 of wind deflector 25. It is to be
understood that support structure 32 need not necessarily comprise
a lower support member above base 36 as jog 37 and base 36 or jog
37 may comprise a lower portion of support structure 32.
[0057] Another example of an alternate way to mount base 36 would
be to compress base 36 against the front surface 38 of front
fairing 20 using a piece of trim (not shown), usually chrome plated
metal. The trim would typically have apertures which would support
the heads 22a of bolts 22 which bolts 22 would pass through
apertures in the trim, typically three or five apertures in most
Harley Davidson.TM. FLHT.TM. models, then through accessory support
apertures 39 or accessory support notches (not shown) of base 36 of
accessory support 30, then through notches 26 or apertures (not
shown) in wind deflector 25, and then into threaded sleeves 24 or
nuts (not shown) supported by inner fairing 21. In this example the
jog 37 would usually be retained as a way to seat the support
structure against the front surface 33 of wind deflector 25.
[0058] Many other ways of attaching support structure 32 to the
front surface 33 of wind deflector 25 exist. These may include more
temporary methods such as using two-way tape to hold the support
structure 32 against the front surface 33 of wind deflector 25.
More permanent ways of attaching accessory support 30 to a
motorcycle may include gluing, welding, riveting, fastening,
bolting, etc. Many other ways of securing the base 36 of the
motorcycle wind deflector accessory support 30 to a motorcycle will
be possible depending on the construction of the motorcycle, which
may or may not utilize a front fairing or inner fairing. If a
motorcycle has a wind deflector 25 there would usually be a
mechanism to secure the bottom edge of the wind deflector to the
motorcycle to which the base 36 may be secured in an analogous
manner.
[0059] In another embodiment the means for holding the support
structure 32 against the front surface 33 of the wind deflector 25
comprises at least one engagement member or engaging means for the
support structure 32 to engage an upper exposed edge 41 of the wind
deflector 25. The engaging means may be used alone or together with
base 36. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, accessory support 30
includes a U-shaped channel 43 for engaging an upper exposed edge
41 of the wind deflector 25. The U-shaped channel 43 may be
continuous along a length of the upper exposed edge 41 of wind
deflector 25, or the U-shaped channel may be used discontinuously
at one or more points along exposed edge 41 resulting in a
plurality of channels 43. The U-shaped channel 43 may comprise one
or more rear support elements 42 which may, but need not, be
resilient. The U-shaped channel 43, with or without one or more
rear support element 42, may engage exposed edge 41 via a friction
fit, with or without a resilient gasket (not shown). Alternatively,
a side of the U-shaped channel 43, presumably a side of channel 43
adjacent the rear surface 44 of wind deflector 25 for aesthetics,
may be fitted with one or more set screws (not shown) for
compression against the rear surface 44 wind deflector 25. If a
U-shaped channel 43 is to be used with base 36, U-shaped channel or
channels 43 would usually be installed over exposed edge 41 before
securing base 36 to the front fairing 20 or other support on
different constructions of motorcycles. Alternatively, the U-shaped
channel 43 may be flexible for stretching over and snugly engaging
a portion of exposed edge 41 of wind deflector 25. U-shaped
channels 43 may be replaced with clips, clamps or other means to
secure support structure 32 to the front surface 33 of wind
deflector 25 proximate exposed edge 41.
[0060] In embodiments in which the wind deflector 25 is engaged by
a channel 43 or clip of the accessory support 30, the clip or
channel 43 should resist slippage from the wind deflector 25 in
order to remain secure when the motorcycle is driven, unless the
bottom of the support structure 32 is secured by the use of base 36
or other device not reliant upon anti-slippage means in channel 43.
For example, when the accessory support 30 includes a U-shaped
channel 43 for engaging an exposed edge 41 of the wind deflector
25, the U-shaped channel 43 may be resiliently biased to grip the
front surface 33 of wind deflector 25 or rear surface 44 of wind
deflector 25, or both, and at least one inner surface of the
U-shaped channel 43 may further bear an abraded surface for
gripping the front surface 33 or rear surface 44 of wind deflector
25. As such, a certain amount of force may be applied to the
U-shaped channel 43 to overcome the bias of the channel 43 when
securing the channel 43 over the exposed edge 41 of wind deflector
25.
[0061] This attachment of the accessory support 30 to the wind
deflector 25 along edge 41 of the wind deflector 25 may be
sufficient to secure the accessory support 30 against the wind
deflector 25 without need for base portion 36. It is, however,
expected that inclusion of a securable base 36 will provide
additional security and integrity. It is expected that maximum
security of the accessory support 30 against the wind deflector 25
will reduce drag and rattle of the accessory support 30 against the
wind deflector 25, when the motorcycle is driven at high
speeds.
[0062] Alternatively, support structure 32 may comprise a plurality
of separate front support members 31, which may be held against
front surface 33 of wind deflector 25 by the same or different
means. For example, a lower support member 31 may be held in place
by a base 36, while an upper support member 31 may be held in place
by a channel 43. Support structure 32 may comprise front support
members 31 which are separated from one another or that overlap for
continuity or strength. Part of a visible portion or portions of
the front surface 33 of wind deflector 25 may be within the one or
more than one windows defined by the inside edges 34 of front
support members 31, and part of the visible portion or portions of
the front surface 33 of wind deflector 25 may be between outside
edge 34a of support structure 32 and exposed edge 41.
[0063] While accessory support 30 is primarily intended to be
removably attachable to wind deflector 25, it need not be.
Accessory support 30 may also be attached to wind deflector 25 in
more permanent manners such as gluing, heat welding, bolting,
riveting, screwing, clamping, etc. However, when accessory support
30 is removably attachable, different accessory supports 30 may be
installed with different accessories, different configurations of
front support members 31 or rear support elements 42, or in
different colours. For example a black support structure 32 may be
used to blend in with a typically black wind deflector 25 or a
different colour to create contrast.
[0064] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, in order to install the
motorcycle wind deflector accessory support 30 having base 36 with
jog 37 and channel 43 against wind deflector 25 on a motorcycle,
the original wind deflector attachment bolts 22 with heads 22a
holding the wind deflector 25 to the motorcycle are first removed.
The accessory support 30 is then slid over top of wind deflector 25
such that channel 43 snugly engages exposed edge 41 of wind
deflector 25. The accessory support apertures 39 are then aligned
with front fairing apertures 23 followed by wind deflector mounting
notches 26, followed by threaded sleeves 24 supported by inner
fairing 21. Bolts 22 are then placed through the aligned apertures
and notches 39, 23, 26, respectively, and bolted into the threaded
sleeves 24, thereby holding the accessory support 30 against the
wind deflector 25 using the original hardware provided by the
manufacturer, or using longer bolts if necessary. The accessory
support 30 may similarly be removed as desired by the owner without
damage or physical modification to the wind deflector 25 or
motorcycle.
[0065] Accessory support 30 is provided for supporting a number of
motorcycle accessories. These accessories may include, but are not
limited to, various decorative overlays and/or inserts as well as
various antennas for various radio and communication devices and
brake, turn signal, and running lights and other lighting, and
reflectors.
[0066] One type of accessory that may be used with accessory
support 30 is a decorative overlay 48 (FIGS. 5-10) or insert (not
shown). Exemplary embodiments of decorative overlays 48 are shown
in FIGS. 5 to 10. Decorative overlays 48 are provided in various
shapes and sizes for placement over a usually dark coloured,
typically black, wind deflector 25 in order to extend the theme of
detailing on a motorcycle, notably detailing on the front surface
38 of the front fairing 20. The theme may comprise common
motorcycle art such as flames, or crosses, or the theme may be a
custom one. The overlay 48 need not correspond to an existing theme
or colour on the motorcycle, however, the colour or colours of the
decorative overlay 48 would typically be a colour contrasting with
black, or other wind deflector 25 colour, such that the design of
the decorative overlay 48 is visible to oncoming traffic and
pedestrians against the wind deflector 25. Various effects may be
created by varying the shape and colour of the overlay 48 relative
to the shape and colour of the wind deflector to provide a suitable
contrast. A black, or other colour of support structure 32 matching
the colour of the wind deflector 25, may be used so that the
support structure 32 blends in with the wind deflector 25 to
approximate stock looks and give prominence to decorative overlay
48. It is to be understood that the decorative overlay may be the
same colour, and not necessarily a contrasting colour, as the wind
deflector for a more subtle effect. The accessory support 30 may be
the same or different colour or colours as the colour or colours of
the decorative overlay 48. Base 36 may be the same colour as the
rest of the accessory support 30 or may be of a different colour
such as a colour complementary to the colour or colours of the
front surface 38 of front fairing 20.
[0067] The one or more decorative overlays 48 extend over the front
surface 33 of the wind deflector 25 within a window 46 and are
attached to the support structure 32 at two or more points of
attachment 49. A central window 46 defined by the outside support
members 31 of the support structure 32 may also be divided into two
or more smaller windows 46 by an overlay 48 attached to support
structure 32 at two or more points of contact around the central
window 46 defined by the outside support members 31 of the support
structure 32.
[0068] Decorative overlays 48 may be integral to the support
structure 32. For example, the overlay 48 and support structure 32
may both be manufactured into a single component using materials
such as fibreglass, plastic, metal, PVC, etc. Alternatively, the
overlay 48 and support structure 32 to which the overlay is to be
attached may be made separately, of similar or different materials,
and permanently joined together, The overlay 48 and the support
structure 32 may be manufactured at the same time or at different
times and subsequently permanently joined together. Different
pieces may be permanently joined together in various ways including
fastening, bonding, gluing, welding, screwing, bolting, riveting,
fiberglassing, and other ways known in the art.
[0069] Alternatively, overlays 48 may be removably attachable to
support structure 32 and overlays 48 may be interchangeable.
Overlays 48 may be attached to support structure 32 in various ways
including bolting, screwing, snaps, clips, magnets, friction, hook
and loop fasteners, two sided tape and other ways known in the art.
Overlays 48 may for instance comprise inserts which snap into a
window 46. Alternatively, overlays 48 may be held in place by the
rear surface of support structure 32. For example the insert may be
larger than the window 46 into which the insert is to be placed. In
one embodiment a rear edge of the window 46 may comprise a track to
recess the insert in the back of the support structure 32 defining
the window 46 so that the support structure 32 may still be flush
mounted against the front surface 33 of wind deflector 25 and to
prevent the insert from shifting. Removably attachable overlays 48
will usually be rigid so that the overlay will remain in position,
but exceptions may exist.
[0070] It is also to be understood that a portion of a decorative
overlay attached to an upper support member and a lower support
member may also function as a support member for portions of the
decorative overlay supported at one end by the support structure
and at another end by the said portion of the decorative overlay as
shown in FIG. 8.
[0071] Another accessory that may be used with the accessory
support 30 comprises an antenna 50, such as shown in FIGS. 9 and
10. The antenna 50 may be for an FM, AM, AM/FM, Citizen's band, or
private frequency two way radio, or a global positioning system
(GPS), or an ONSTAR.TM. communications and remote control system or
any other automobile accessory requiring an antenna 50. The antenna
50 may be mounted within the accessory support 30 or on the surface
of the accessory support 30, or a combination of such mounting
methods, including, but not limited to, on or within the support
structure 32, base 36, front support members 31, and rear support
elements 42.
[0072] In one embodiment the antenna 50 is integral to the
accessory support 30. For example, the antenna may be moulded into
the accessory support 30. The antenna 50 also may be located within
a cavity in the accessory support 30 and may be removeably
attachable to the accessory support 30 so as to be able to replace
the antenna 50 in the event that repairs are required, or if an
antenna 50 with different properties is required if the technology
associated with the accessory changes, or if an antenna 50 for a
different accessory is desired. Further, multiple antennae 50 may
be mounted in the accessory support for different accessories, or
for different reception required within the same accessory. More
than one antenna 50 may be mounted in the same or different
manners. Different antennae 50 may need to be spaced apart and may
be mounted in different manners to achieve this. Alternatively,
multiple cavities may be provided, in the same or different parts
of the accessory support 30. Accordingly, multiple cavities may be
provided parallel or side-by-side. Alternatively, the antennae 50
may be coated with an interference inhibiting coating or one or
more of the antennae 50 may each be fitted within a tube of
interference inhibiting material. One or more grooves or troughs
may also be provided for recessing the antennae 50 from surfaces of
the accessory support 30. Where it is desirable to surface mount
the one or more than one antenna 50 the one or more grooves or
troughs may be useful to provide a flush surface or simply for
aesthetics. For example, grooves or troughs may be provided along
an inner surface of channel 43 or along the back surface of support
structure 32 or along the back surface of one or more support
element 42 such that wind deflector 25 may be mounted flush against
such grooves or troughs, thus holding the antenna 50 in place. The
antenna 50 may also be kept in place within the troughs for ease of
mounting the antenna 50, for example by tape or by a friction fit
or by a snap fit or by bonding, such as with glue, epoxy, silicone,
or other methods. Thus the antenna 50 may be removed from the
grooves or troughs in the accessory support 30 if necessary and a
replacement or other antenna 50 installed if desired. If grooves or
troughs are in a visible location the grooves or troughs may be
filled with a bonding agent or filler, such as auto body filler,
and painted. The antenna 50 may be recessed from the surrounding
surface of the accessory support 30, the one or more front support
members 31, the one or more rear support elements 42, or the base
36, or a combination thereof.
[0073] In various embodiments the antenna 50 can be attached around
a perimeter of the accessory support 30 or a perimeter of the
support structure 32 or a perimeter of the one or more than one
rear support element 42 or a perimeter comprising the base 36, or a
combination thereof, in order to spread out the antenna 50. An
antenna 50 may also be too long to fit around a perimeter of the
accessory support 30 in which case the antenna 50 may overlap
itself, usually, but not necessarily, in a spaced apart
relationship.
[0074] FIGS. 9 and 10 depict the motorcycle wind deflector
accessory support 30 with a radio antenna 50 attached thereto. In
the embodiments shown, a FM dipole antenna 50, with each wire of
the dipole run in parallel, is attached with tape (not shown) to
the back of the wind deflector 25 adjacent the top edge of the
inner fairing 21 (not shown) from approximately the horizontal
center of the accessory support 30. The antenna 50 is then run
inside channel 43 from one side of the accessory support 30 to the
other. The antenna 50 is then attached with tape to the back of the
wind deflector 25 adjacent the top edge of the inner fairing 21
(not shown) to approximately the horizontal center of the accessory
support 30 where the antenna 50 is routed downwardly to the radio
(not shown). In these embodiments each wire of the dipole is 33.75
inches, with 70-OHM capacity. The dipole antenna is connected to a
300 OHM ribbon cable 52 which is attached to an industry standard
AM/FM radio male antenna jack 51. Or course, other antenna lengths
and capacities are also contemplated.
[0075] A further accessory that may be mounted on or in the
motorcycle wind deflector accessory support 30 is a combination of
automotive indicator lights comprising brake lights 60, 61, turn
signal lights 54, 55, 58, 59 and running lights 56, 57, as shown in
FIGS. 11 to 13. One will recognize that not all such lights need be
utilized, but a combination of all such lights would be the most
useful as well as the most decorative. While many different types
of lights compatible with the motorcycle's electrical system may be
used, Light Emitting Diode (L.E.D.) panels are preferred as such
panels are available in thicknesses of approximately 1/8 of an inch
which may be partly or fully recessed in accessory support 30 thus
resulting in a flush profile or thinner profile than available with
other lights. Further, LED panels draw minimal current therefore
not burdening the motorcycle's electrical system. Further, LED
lights rarely require replacement. LED lights are also generally
available for twelve volt electrical systems such as used with most
modern motorcycles, although they are also available in other
voltages, for example six volt. Many larger modern motorcycles
contemplate the use of auxiliary lighting and often have terminals
specifically for auxiliary brake, turn and running lights. If such
terminals are not available, those familiar with motorcycles,
especially automotive electricians, would readily understand how to
splice such auxiliary lighting into the existing wiring harness of
a motorcycle. Such auxiliary Brake lights 60, 61 are most useful in
rearward facing orientations, although one or more forward facing
brake lights may be useful. For example a forward facing brake
light or lights mounted on the front surface of the support
structure 32, preferably centrally mounted along an upper support
member 31, provides visibility high up on a motorcycle where
mounting substrates are limited or non-existent, so that oncoming
traffic may readily see when the motorcycle is slowing or stopping.
Turn signal lights 54, 55, 58, 59 are useful in both rearward and
forward facing orientations. Running lights 56, 57 are most useful
in a forward facing orientation as rearward facing running lights
may distract the motorcycle driver in night driving, although
rearward facing applications are possible. Brake lights 60, 61 and
running lights 56, 57 may be useful on any surface of the accessory
support 30, but turn signal lights 54, 55, 58, 59 to be useful
would require right turn signal lights 54, 58 to be attached to the
right half of the accessory support 30 and left turn signal lights
55, 59 to be attached to the left half of the accessory support 30.
Such lighting may also be used decoratively on any exposed surfaces
of the accessory support 30 in random or repeating patterns mostly
for the effect of lights going on and off. For example, the entire
perimeter of the accessory support may light up when one or more of
brake, turn and running lights are engaged by the driver, without
necessarily indicating the direction of a turn in the case of turn
signals.
[0076] FIGS. 11 to 13 show embodiments of a wind deflector mounted
auxiliary lighting system. FIG. 11 is a front view of the accessory
support 30 receiving a main auxiliary wiring harness 80 which
divides into right wiring sub-harness 81 supplying power to right
front turn signal light LED panel 54 and right front running light
LED panel 56 and right rear brake light LED panel 60 (not shown in
FIG. 11 but shown in FIG. 12) and right rear turn signal light LED
panel 58 (not shown in FIG. 11 but shown in FIG. 12), and divides
into left wiring sub-harness 82 supplying power to left front turn
signal light LED panel 55 and left front running light LED panel 57
and left rear brake light LED panel 61 (not shown in FIG. 11 but
shown in FIG. 12) and left rear turn signal light LED panel 59 (not
shown in FIG. 11 but shown in FIG. 12). FIG. 11 shows LED panels
54, 56, 55, 57 recessed in the horizontally right and left ends of
upper front support member 31. FIG. 12 shows LED panels 58, 60, 59,
61, recessed in the horizontally right and left ends of upper rear
support element 42. Wiring sub-harnesses 81, 82, are shown attached
to the rear surface of jog 37 then travelling in channel 43 (not
shown) to the right to LED panels 54, 56, 58, 60, and to the left
to LED panels 55, 57, 59, 61. LED panels 54 to 61 may be secured to
supports 31, 42 by any number of ways including, integrating during
manufacture of accessory support 30, gluing, a friction fit, a snap
fit, bolting, screwing, riveting, and other ways known in the
art.
[0077] Those skilled in the art will recognize that many ways of
routing the harnesses 80, 81, 82 to the lighting are possible and
the precise route the wiring takes to reach the LED panels is not
critical. A wiring harness or other such wiring directly from the
motorcycle's electrical system to the LED panels 54 to 61 may not
even be necessary. The LED panels 54 to 61 requiring minimal power
may also have their own power supply, for instance a battery,
attached to or proximate the LED panels 54 to 61, together with RF
receivers connected to the LED panels 54 to 61 for receiving
signals from RF transmitters connected to the motorcycle's
auxiliary power terminals, or equivalent splicing into the
motorcycle's existing wiring system. A different set of RF
receiver, transmitter and frequency, could be used for each
different type of signal (i.e. Brake, right turn and left turn
signals). Those skilled in the art, especially motorcycle
electricians, will know how to connect well known RF parts in the
required manner. Running lights may simply have their own power
source with a simple on-off switch independent of the motorcycle's
electrical system.
[0078] FIG. 13 is a schematic view of LEDs 54 to 61 and wiring
harnesses 80, 81, 82. Power for the wind deflector auxiliary
lighting system is typically obtained from the motorcycle's power
terminals (not shown). Accessory panel connection wires 74
comprising brake accessory panel wires 70, running lights accessory
panel wires 71, right signal lights accessory panel wires 72 and
left signal lights accessory panel wires 73, each terminate with an
accessory panel connector 79 for connecting to the auxiliary power
terminals of the motorcycle. Each accessory panel connector 79 may
be removed for splicing the wires into the motorcycle's existing
wiring harness if required. Connection wires 74 are then bound
together to form main auxiliary wiring harness 80 which splits into
right wiring sub-harness 81 and left wiring sub-harness 82
proximate accessory support 30. Brake light power from brake
accessory panel wires 70 and main harness 80 is split and delivered
through sub-harnesses 81, 82 and right and left brake light wires
66 to right rear brake light LED panel 60 and left rear brake light
LED panel 61. Running light power from running lights accessory
panel wires 71 and main harness 80 is split and delivered through
sub-harnesses 81, 82 and right and left running light wires 67 to
right front running light LED panel 56 and left front running light
LED panel 57. Right turn signal light power from right signal
lights accessory panel wires 72 and main harness 80 and right
wiring sub-harness 81 and front and rear right signal light wires
68 is split and delivered to right front turn signal light LED
panel 54 and right rear turn signal light LED panel 58. Left turn
signal light power from left signal lights accessory panel wires 73
and main harness 80 and left wiring sub-harness 82 and front and
rear left signal light wires 69 is split and delivered to left
front turn signal light LED panel 55 and left rear turn signal
light LED panel 59.
[0079] Decorative lights may be attached to any visible surface of
the accessory support 30 which may be powered by the motorcycle's
existing electrical system or may have a separate power source
which may comprise one or more batteries. The decorative lights may
also be connected to means for regulating the order, frequency,
intensity and colour of the lights to be powered, as well as means
for turning the lights on and off.
[0080] The support structure 32, base 36, front support members 31
and rear support elements 42 may also comprise reflectors which may
be surface mounted, for example by two sided tape, or be recessed
in the support structure 32, base 36, support elements 42 or be
flush with the outside surface of the support structure 32, base
36, support members 31, or support elements 42 and be attached in
the same manner as may the LED panels.
[0081] In this specification the terms left and right and
horizontal and vertical are from the vantage point of a driver of a
motorcycle.
[0082] The above-described embodiments of the present invention are
intended to be examples only. Alterations, modifications and
variations may be effected to the particular embodiments by those
of skill in the art without departing from the scope of the
invention.
PARTS LIST
[0083] 20. front fairing [0084] 21. inner fairing [0085] 22. wind
deflector attachment bolts [0086] 22a. heads of attachment bolts
[0087] 23. front fairing apertures [0088] 24. threaded sleeves
[0089] 25. wind deflector [0090] 26. mounting notches (in wind
deflector) [0091] 27. bottom portion (of wind deflector) [0092] 28.
bottom edge of wind deflector [0093] 29. upper edge of wind
deflector [0094] 30. motorcycle wind deflector accessory support
[0095] 31. front support member [0096] 32. support structure [0097]
33. front surface (of wind deflector) [0098] 34. inside edge (of
front support member) [0099] 34a. outside edges of support
structure [0100] 35. central unobstructed portion (of front surface
of wind deflector) [0101] 36. base [0102] 37. jog (connecting base
to support structure) [0103] 38. front surface of front fairing
[0104] 39. accessory support apertures [0105] 40. upper portion (of
upper front support member) [0106] 41. exposed edge (of wind
deflector) [0107] 42. rear support element [0108] 43. channel
[0109] 44. rear surface (of wind deflector) [0110] 45. upper
portion (of upper rear support element) [0111] 46. windows (in
support structure) [0112] 47. edges of rear support element [0113]
48. decorative overlay [0114] 49. point of attachment (of overlay)
[0115] 50. antenna [0116] 51. antenna jack (male) [0117] 52. cable
[0118] 54. right front turn signal light LED panel [0119] 55. left
front turn signal light LED panel [0120] 56. right front running
light LED panel [0121] 57. left front running light LED panel
[0122] 58. right rear turn signal light LED panel [0123] 59. left
rear turn signal light LED panel [0124] 60. right rear brake light
LED panel [0125] 61. left rear brake light LED panel [0126] 66.
brake light wires (right rear and left rear) [0127] 67. running
light wires (right front and left front) [0128] 68. right signal
light wires (front and rear) [0129] 69. left signal light wires
(front and rear) [0130] 70. brake lights accessory panel wires
[0131] 71. running lights accessory panel wires [0132] 72. right
signal lights accessory panel wires [0133] 73. left signal lights
accessory panel wires [0134] 74. accessory panel connection wires
[0135] 79. accessory panel connectors [0136] 80. main auxiliary
wiring harness [0137] 81. right wiring sub-harness [0138] 82. left
wiring sub-harness
* * * * *